White Cane Safety Day, 2003
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation

Every day, millions of Americans who are blind or visually impaired
use the white cane as they travel, attend school, or work. The white
cane remains one of the most important and reliable tools for people
who are blind or visually impaired. It increases the mobility of these
citizens, facilitating their inclusion in all aspects of American
life. Since 1964 on White Cane Safety Day, America has reaffirmed our
commitment to achieving equal opportunity and full independence for
those who are blind or visually impaired.

Today, more people with disabilities are attending school and
working than ever before. However, much work remains to fully open the
doors of opportunity for citizens who are blind or visually impaired.
To meet these challenges, I have created the New Freedom Initiative, a
comprehensive plan to assist Americans with disabilities by increasing
access to educational and employment opportunities. This initiative is
lowering barriers more so that Americans can participate fully in their
communities, and live and work in dignity and freedom.

My Administration also continues to promote implementation of
section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. This important statute
requires the Federal Government to make more of its electronic and
information technology resources, including Government websites,
accessible to people with disabilities.

As we recognize the contributions of people who are blind or
visually impaired, we resolve to continue building a better America
where all individuals are celebrated for their abilities and encouraged
to achieve their dreams.

The Congress, by joint resolution (Public Law 88-628) approved on
October 6, 1964, as amended, has designated October 15 of each year as
"White Cane Safety Day."

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States
of America, do hereby proclaim October 15, 2003, as White Cane Safety
Day. I call upon public officials, educators, librarians, and all the
people of the United States to join with me in ensuring that all the
benefits and privileges of life in our great Nation are available to
blind and visually impaired individuals, and to observe this day with
appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fifteenth day
of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand three, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
twenty-eighth.